A Canterbury pork producer has become the first recipient of a quality assurance certificate for it's "gate to plate" pork product guarantee programme.

Murrellen Pork, run by husband and wife team Colin & Karen Battersby, has achieved the Pork Quality Improvement Process (PQIP) rating after 4 years. As pork producers, the Battersbys are the first link in the PQIP chain and while other farmers have achieved individual PQIP ratings, the Battersbys are the first to do so for their entire process!

Recognising the demand by restaurants for quality guaranteed pork, the Battersbys began forming alliances with other companies involved in the pork distribution chain, such as transporters and cutting floors.

Now the Battersbys are able to supply the food service trade with  a "gate to plate" quality product through the Murrellen Pork label. This label was launched to the trade in May, 1999 at the Southland Hotel in Hokitika.

For further information about where to purchase quality assured Murrellen Pork, telephone Colin or Karen on (03) 3183726, or email:murrellen@xtra.co.nz

"Pork is often referred to as the world's favorite meat - certainly it's mine. Pork is very versatile, and can be combined with a huge variety of herbs, spices, fruits and vegetables."